Wogonin Inhibits in vitro Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 and 2 Infection Through Modulating Cellular NF-κB and MAPK Pathways

Abstract Background Wogonin, a naturally flavonoid-like chemical compounds, has exhibited anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-viral, neuroprotective, and anxiolytic effects through modulating a variety of signaling pathways including PI3K-Akt, p53, nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK). In this study, its antiviral effect against herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2) replication has been investigated.Results The evidence showed that wogonin could suppress HSV-1 and − 2-induced cytopathogenic effect (CPE) and reduce viral RNA transcription, protein synthesis, and titers of infectious virion particles formation in a dose-dependent manner. Time-of-drug-addition assay demonstrated that wogonin acted as a viral post-entry inhibitor. It was also found that wogonin significantly reduced HSV-induced NF-κB and MAPK pathways activation, which were proved to be significant for viral replication previously.Conclusions Our results suggested that anti-herpes effect of wogonin may be mediated by its modulation of cellular NF-κB and JNK/p38 MAPK pathways, implying its potential application as an anti-HSV agent.